Markus Zusak’s heartrending novel The Book Thief recounts the experience of a young German girl living amid the horrors of World War II. Orphaned under tragic circumstances, Liesel Meminger witnesses the senseless and horrific atrocities of the Holocaust as she and her companions endure the wretched actions of the Nazi regime. Despite the constant presence of hatred and violence, Liesel discovers strength and resilience through the love and friendship of those who surround her during the darkness of war. In glaring contrast to the grim atmosphere of World War II, Zusak’s characters continually reveal traits of kindheartedness and humanity that help to sustain them. For example, upon arriving at the Hubermann’s home for the first time, Liesel discovers “the strangeness of her father’s eyes. They were made of kindness,” granting her much needed comfort in the realization “Hans Hubermann was worth a lot” (Zusak 34). Upon studying her foster…show more content… Amid the panic of hiding from the Nazis, Max pens a book for Liesel, “The Standover Man,” tenderly recalling a hug she gave him, “I think we are friends, this girl and me. On her birthday it was she who gave a gift to me” (###). During a time of great suffering and anxiety, Liesel’s warmth and affection bring joy to Max. This critical connection between the two friends proves to distract the young man from his dire and worrisome fate, allowing him to savor a small moments of happiness. Despite the constant suffering and tragedy Zusak’s characters encounter in The Book Thief, Liesel and her comrades persevere through the power of love and friendship. Surrounded by the hatred and evil of the Holocaust, the young girl’s alliance of family and friends fortify each other with the courage and resolve to brave another
